New five-year strategy to prevent homeless approved in Salford

A new five-year strategy set to prevent homelessness in vulnerable people has been approved by Salford City Council.

‘Homelessness is everyone’s business’ works to prevent rough sleeping by identifying people who may be at risk of having no home early, and to ensure information is widely available about accessible housing.

The new five year strategy was approved at the council’s Cabinet meeting on Tuesday 28 March and was developed by partners, professionals, wider services and members of the public.

Chief Executive Tom Stannard from Salford City Council said: “In Salford we want the need for rough sleeping to be totally eradicated. But that is a very difficult challenge, and more than ever so in the current economic climate.

“We want earlier identification of those who are at risk, so we can step in and help out. That is why the report is titled ‘Homelessness is everyone’s business’ – so partner agencies, wider services or members of the public can point out those who are most in need.

“Our Housing options team are now working to provide a much more prevention focussed way of working and they are pointing people to other council services to get support and advice. For example residents can get support with emergency assistance, council tax support, essential food provision – there are lots of areas where we can help.”